Inaugural UEFA nations league winners Portugal and defending champions Spain clash tonight at 10pm EAT in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final at Munich’s Allianz Arena, marking the first-ever Iberian final in the competition’s history.
The match headlines a finals day that also includes a third-place playoff between hosts Germany and France in Stuttgart.
Ahead of the final, International all time top scorer Cristiano was quizzed about Spain’s wonderkid Lamine Yamal and a potential showdown with him.
”It’s always been like this, always Cristiano against this or that, and I’m used to it. It’s different generations, one generation starting and another nearing the end. It would have been better to compare Lamine to Vitinha, as they’re closer in age. But that’s okay, I handle the pressure.” He said
Portugal’s coach Roberto Martinez was also wary of Spain’s threat especially from Yamal.
“Stopping Lamine? Our reaction after losing the ball must be perfect; we cannot allow Spain to launch quick attacks, and we must stick to what we are good at, as we have already shown in a stadium full of German fans.”
On his part Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was full of praise for Portugal especially Cristiano Ronaldo in his pre match press conference.
”It’s a blessing to face Portugal and a footballer who has shaped an era and a legacy,” De la Fuente said
Portugal led by one of the greatest players in football history, Cristiano Ronaldo, stormed their second nations league final after eliminating hosts Germany 2-1 with a late goal from the iconic 40-year-old. They are now seeking a second nations league title
Meanwhile Spain, the reigning Nations League and Euro 2024 champions, survived a dramatic 5-4 semifinal victory over France fueled by a stunning brace from 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal and now will be looking to complete an unprecedented “triple crown” of major trophies.
While all eyes are on the final, the third-place playoff will see France take on Germany in a battle of redemption. Both teams will aim to end their Nations League campaign on a high after disappointing semifinal exits. The match, scheduled for earlier on Sunday at 4pm will be hosted at Stuttgart’s MHP Arena.
